Veterans in Utah are discovering the healing benefits of Native American flutes as a therapeutic tool for managing post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) and other challenges. This initiative, led by artist Arlo Johnson and fellow veteran John Baker, aims to provide a pathway to peace and well-being through music.
The Origins of a Healing Journey
In Salt Lake City, the use of Native American flutes has emerged as an innovative form of therapy. Arlo Johnson, who has strong ties to the Four Corners area of New Mexico, became aware of the flute’s therapeutic potential after receiving one from his friend, the late John ‘Lakota’ Hawks. Hawks, a veteran of the 73rd Airborne Brigade, carved the flute for Johnson during his treatment at the Veterans Affairs hospital. This meaningful gesture stemmed from the support Hawks found while staying in Johnson’s driveway during his recovery.
Johnson experienced profound tranquility through playing the flute and recognized its potential to assist other veterans facing similar struggles with trauma. He observed that playing the instrument closely resembles the principles of meditation, involving deep breaths and a controlled release that can facilitate a meditative state.
A Community of Healing Through Music
Motivated by this realization, Johnson set out to share flutes and lessons with veterans. His outreach led him to Salt Lake Community College, where he met John Baker, a fellow veteran and experienced participant in flute-making classes. Baker, an accomplished flute maker himself, began supplying Johnson with flutes to distribute to veterans seeking therapeutic relief.
For Baker, crafting flutes has become a significant source of solace, especially following the death of his wife of 57 years due to lung cancer. He found healing and refuge in the wood shop, where the process of shaping raw materials into musical instruments provided him with calm and purpose. Baker describes the experience of transforming wood into a flute as a profound journey, amplifying the beauty of the material through sound. This creative outlet not only offers an escape from daily stressors but also fosters a sense of engagement and well-being.
Johnson’s initiative exemplifies the therapeutic power of music and artistic expression. It transcends the mere creation of instruments, facilitating emotional healing and offering veterans a way to confront their psychological wounds. The incorporation of Native American cultural traditions into therapeutic practices highlights a growing awareness of holistic approaches to mental health, particularly within veteran communities.
Through the provision of flutes and lessons, Johnson is not only sharing a craft but also fostering a supportive community where veterans can connect, exchange experiences, and embark on a healing journey together. This initiative aligns with a broader trend towards exploring alternative therapeutic interventions, such as art therapy, music therapy, and mindfulness practices, as complementary strategies to conventional medical treatments for PTSD.
As this movement gains momentum, the collaboration between Johnson and Baker serves as a beacon of hope for veterans in Utah, illustrating the profound impact of music on mental health and the importance of community in the healing process.
